Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

on a slippery slope

idiom

/ɒn ə ˈslɪpəri sloʊp/

Definition

A situation that is increasingly likely to lead to disaster or a negative outcome.

Examples

If we allow students to retake the exam multiple times, we might be on a slippery slope towards lowering academic standards.
The company is on a slippery slope after the recent scandal, and it may take years to rebuild its reputation.
Once you start bending the rules, you’re on a slippery slope that could lead to serious ethical issues.

Meaning

The phrase ‘on a slippery slope’ refers to a course of action that is difficult to stop and may lead to harmful consequences as a result of seemingly small decisions or actions.